Frequently Asked Questions

Clean Access - Compliance Questions

What happens when a new patch or updates are available?

As new critical Microsoft updates become available, the security compliance requirements
will be updated to reflect the new patches. It is a mandatory requirement for all
users to keep their Operating System patches up to date. If a vulnerability is reported
or the threat of a virus storm or worm attack emerges, we could add another compliance
check (in addition to existing security checks) in reaction to the threat.

How Does Authentication Work for Linux and Unix Users?

Linux and Unix users must authenticate by logging in via a web page. The only compliance
check (performed in the background) for Linux and Unix users is proper NetID and password.
There is no client needed for Linux and Unix systems. However, all users must accept
Network Policy Agreement before signing in.

How Does Validation Work for Microsoft Users?

All Microsoft Windows computers are required to install the Clean Access
Agent client software to connect to the university network. You will
also be required to install Microsoft critical OS patches and updates,
must be running supported anti-virus software with latest virus
definitions.

How Long Does the Validation Checks Take?

In general, the checks take between 10 and 20 seconds.

What Validation Checks are Being Performed?

Users machines are required to meet the following criteria:

Have the current Windows Operating System Critical Updates & Hot Fixes

Have turned on Automatic Updates feature for Microsoft Windows on the machine

Have supported Anti-virus software running

Have latest virus definitions for the anti-virus software

How Does Validation Work?

The validation solution will "intercept" any Internet browser access and
redirect the user to a web page that instructs the user to download and
install the validation client known as "Clean Access Agent". This will
happen only if you do not have the client installed on your machine
already. Once launched, the client downloads the validation rules and
processes these. If the workstation fails the test, it is allowed
Internet access only to the remediation sites for 20 minutes.

What is validation?

The process of confirming that certain security measures are in place on
your computer.